Fritz Pragst | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Paper Award

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Prof. Dr. Fritz Pragst | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Paper Award

Guest Scientist | Humboldt University of Berlin | Germany

Prof. Dr. Fritz Pragst is a distinguished scholar in forensic and analytical toxicology whose work has significantly shaped modern toxicological science, evidence interpretation, and laboratory methodology. With an academic career spanning several decades, he has established himself as a leading authority in systematic toxicological analysis, forensic chemistry, and biomarker research, contributing to both foundational understanding and applied forensic practice. His scientific influence is demonstrated through 147 published documents, more than 6,170 citations, and an h-index of 43, reflecting consistent scholarly impact, high research relevance, and continued citation in contemporary toxicology literature. His pioneering contributions to hair analysis methodology, including alcohol biomarkers such as ethyl glucuronide and drug exposure evaluation in cases involving familial substance misuse, have provided globally referenced frameworks for long-term toxicological monitoring, legal case assessments, and public health applications. His work addresses complex analytical challenges, including differentiation between substance exposure routes, interpretation of low-level toxicological data, validation of forensic laboratory workflows, and development of ethical and scientifically defensible interpretation models. Beyond research, he has actively contributed to scientific societies, served in editorial and advisory roles, and engaged in extensive collaboration across multidisciplinary research networks, thereby supporting international knowledge exchange and capacity building within toxicology and forensic science communities. His scholarly output also demonstrates a commitment to solving real-world challenges, including improving diagnostic accuracy, enhancing substance abuse monitoring, and supporting fair use of toxicological evidence in legal and clinical environments. Through his influential publications, leadership roles, and contributions to methodological rigor and scientific education, Prof. Dr. Fritz Pragst has made a lasting impact on global forensic toxicology, ensuring that analytical science continues to advance with accuracy, ethical integrity, and societal relevance.

Profiles : Scopus | ResearchGate

Pragst, F. (2025). Systematic toxicological analysis in forensic and clinical laboratories: a challenging task of analytical chemistry. ChemTexts, 11(2).

Pragst, F., & Balíková, M. A. (2006). State of the art in hair analysis for detection of drug and alcohol abuse. Clinica Chimica Acta, 370(1–2), 17–49.

Pragst, F. (2022). Is there a relationship between abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs seen in hair results? Drug Testing and Analysis. (2025 listing for 2025 issues)

Prof. Dr. Fritz Pragst has significantly advanced forensic and clinical toxicology through pioneering work in systematic toxicological analysis and hair‐based drug detection methods, shaping global standards and improving public health, justice systems, and medico-legal investigations. His research continues to inspire innovation, strengthen scientific reliability, and support safer societies worldwide.

Gunjan Jadon | Medicinal Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Gunjan Jadon | Medicinal Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Professor | Pacific College of Pharmacy | India

Dr. Gunjan Jadon is an emerging researcher in pharmaceutical analysis and analytical chemistry, known for her contributions to quality-centered method development and scientific rigor. With a growing academic profile reflected through 3 peer-reviewed publications, 54 citations, and an h-index of 2, she has steadily established her presence within the analytical science community. Her research focuses on chromatographic method development, impurity assessment, pharmaceutical quality control, and the systematic application of Analytical Quality by Design (QbD) principles. One of her notable works includes the development and validation of a QbD-based RP-HPLC method for the quantification of dobutamine, demonstrating her expertise in experimental optimization, response-surface modeling, and regulatory aligned method validation. Dr. Jadon’s broader research interests integrate risk assessment, analytical robustness studies, and the enhancement of method precision and reproducibility to support high-quality pharmaceutical evaluation. She actively collaborates with multidisciplinary teams of pharmaceutical scientists and analytical chemists, strengthening the practical and translational impact of her findings. Her work contributes to improving drug-evaluation workflows, ensuring analytical reliability, and promoting safer therapeutic outcomes across the pharmaceutical sector. Beyond her research outputs, she remains engaged in scientific dialogue through collaborative networks, co-authored studies, and participation in academic platforms aimed at advancing analytical science. Her contributions hold societal relevance by supporting the development of robust analytical frameworks that enhance the quality, safety, and consistency of pharmaceutical products. Driven by a commitment to scientific integrity and continuous innovation, Dr. Jadon continues to explore emerging analytical challenges while expanding the methodological landscape of pharmaceutical research, demonstrating promise as a dedicated and impactful early-career scientist.

Profiles : Google Scholar | Scopus | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Dahiya, R., Dahiya, S., Fuloria, N. K., Kumar, S., Mourya, R., Chennupati, S. V., et al. (2020). Natural bioactive thiazole-based peptides from marine resources: Structural and pharmacological aspects. Marine Drugs, 18(6), 329.

2. Joshi, S. K., Bhadauria, R. S., & Diwaker, A. K. (2012). Introduction to neoplasm: Tumor classification – A review article. International Journal of Advanced Research in Pharmaceutical & Bio Sciences, 22.

3. Jadon, G., & Kumawat, L. (2011). Synthesis, spectral and biological evaluation of some phenyl acetic acid hydrazone derivatives. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2(10), 2572.

4. Gunjan, J., & Kumawat, L. (2011). Synthesis, spectral and biological evaluation of some hydrazone derivatives. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, 2(9), 2408–2412.

5. Gunjan, J., Rahul, N., Divya, S., Praveen, K. S., & Diwaker, K. A. (2012). Antioxidant activity of various parts of Punica granatum: A review. Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics, 2, 138–141.

Gunjan Jadon’s work advances analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical quality assurance by developing robust, regulatory-aligned methods that improve drug safety and evaluation. Her research contributes to more reliable therapeutic quality control, supporting innovation, precision, and societal well-being across the pharmaceutical sector.

Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso, Chile.

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo 🧑‍🔬 is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso 🇨🇱. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Engineering Sciences from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile 🎓, Dr. Acevedo has established himself as a pioneer in food chemistry and structural bioinformatics 🧪. His research focuses on the molecular characterization of organoleptic food additives 🍬 and rational drug design 💊. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and contributed to multiple interdisciplinary projects in biochemistry and pharmacology. Passionate about teaching and mentoring 👨‍🏫, he guides undergraduate and graduate students in bioinformatics and biochemical research. Dr. Acevedo also plays an active role in academic peer review, editorial boards, and science outreach 🌍. His career blends deep scientific inquiry with educational innovation and societal engagement, making him a dynamic force in the global chemistry community 🌐.

PROFILE 

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

🔍 Summary of Suitability:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, with a strong foundation in computational bioinformatics, food chemistry, and biochemical pharmacology. As an Associate Professor at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, he has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, interdisciplinary innovation, and impactful research. His academic background, scientific publications, mentorship, and leadership roles underscore a career devoted to advancing molecular science and contributing to global health and nutrition challenges.

📘 Education & Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2017)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2016)

  • 📚 Diploma in University Teaching, PUCV (2019)

  • 📚 Diploma in Virtual University Training, PUCV (2020)

  • 💻 Graduate in Bioinformatics, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 👨‍🏫 Associate Professor, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV

  • 🧬 Bioinformatics Engineer, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 📖 Scientific Reviewer, multiple journals including Food Chemistry and Scientific Reports

  • 🔬 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation, Journal of Drug Design and Research

Professional Development 🚀📖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo continuously enhances his professional skills through diverse academic and research activities 📈. He has completed numerous training programs in virtual education, AI in teaching, curriculum development, and project formulation at PUCV 🎓. His involvement in interdisciplinary projects spans vertical farming 🌿, enzymatic hydrolysis, and drug formulation for dermatological conditions 🧴. As a mentor, he has supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate theses 🧑‍🎓. Dr. Acevedo actively contributes to international research communities as a reviewer and editorial board member 📰. He is also a dedicated science communicator, promoting STEM outreach through the Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation 🧠. His collaborative spirit has led to roles in national research grants and innovation-driven projects 💡. His work bridges cutting-edge science, education, and public engagement, positioning him as a multifaceted professional in molecular chemistry, bioinformatics, and pharmacological sciences 🌍.

Research Focus 🔍🤖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo’s research centers around Food Chemistry, Biochemical Pharmacology, and Structural Bioinformatics 🔍. He investigates the molecular interactions of food additives, especially sweeteners, with human taste receptors 🍭. His research applies computational tools like molecular docking and dynamics to understand taste perception and improve food quality. Additionally, Dr. Acevedo explores the rational design of anticancer and antimicrobial agents 🧬, targeting enzymes and proteins like SIRT2, EGFR, COX-2, and bitter taste receptors. He has participated in drug discovery efforts and virtual screening campaigns that integrate in silico and in vitro approaches 💊. His interdisciplinary projects have included work on skin microbiome modulation, environmental toxicology, and salmon immunology 🐟. With a strong computational background, he brings innovation to molecular modeling, offering insights into bioactive compound mechanisms and receptor-ligand interactions 🔬. His research contributes significantly to both health and food sciences 🌿.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️

  • 🧑‍⚖️ Peer Evaluator, CNA-Chile Postgraduate Area (2024–Present)

  • 🧠 Advisory Committee Member, Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation (2024–Present)

  • 🧬 Review Editor, Frontiers in Genome Editing (2024–Present)

  • 📝 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation & Journal of Drug Design and Research (2023–Present)

  • 🌐 Chief of Outreach, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV (2023–Present)

  • 🧪 Member, Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Chile (SBBMCh) (2022–Present)

  • 📚 Board Collaborator, Doctorate Program in Chemistry, PUCV (2018–Present)

  • 🏆 Best Graduate Award, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 🌟 Stimulus to Effort Award, Gabriel & Mary Mustakis Foundation (1999)

  • 🗣️ CONICYT Doctoral Scholarship, Chile (2013–2016)

  • 🇬🇧 CORFO English Scholarship, for Global Services Industry (2010)

Publications & Citations 📚

  • Golcienė, B., Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    Identification of 3-[(4-Acetylphenyl)(4-Phenylthiazol-2-Yl)Amino]Propanoic Acid Derivatives as Promising Anticancer Candidates Targeting SIRT2 and EGFR.
    Pharmaceuticals, 18(5). https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050733

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    3,3′-((3-Hydroxyphenyl)azanediyl)dipropionic Acid Derivatives Against Drug-Resistant Pathogens and Cancer.
    Pathogens, 14(5), 484. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14050484

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Guzmán, L., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2024).
    Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Hydroquinone-Chalcone-Pyrazoline Hybrids.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25, 7281. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25137281

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2024).
    Bis(thiazol-5-yl)phenylmethane Derivatives Against MDR Staphylococcus aureus.
    PLOS ONE, 19(3), e0300380. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300380

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2023).
    Naphthohydroquinone-Derived Chalcones as Anticancer Agents.
    Molecules, 28, 7172. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207172

  • Acevedo, W., Morán-Figueroa, R., Vargas-Chacoff, L., Morera, F. J., Pontigo, J. P. (2023).
    NLRP3 Inflammasome in Salmo salar: Structural and Transcriptomic Insights.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24, 14556. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241914556

  • Maldonado, J., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoisoxazolequinone Carboxamides as Antitumor Agents.
    Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 42(4), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/10406638.2022.2095410

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoquinone Derivatives Targeting COX-2.
    Pharmaceuticals, 15, 541. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15050541

  • Balada, C., Castro, M., Fassio, C., Zamora, A., Marchant, M. J., Acevedo, W., Guzmán, L. (2021).
    Genetic Diversity of Curcuma longa from Rapa Nui.
    Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 28, 707–716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.10.062

  • Acevedo, W., Cañón, P., Gómez, F., Huerta, J., Aguayo, D., Agosin, E. (2020).
    L-Malate Protonation and Malolactic Enzyme Activity in Oenococcus oeni.
    Molecules, 25(15), 3431–3447. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25153431

🔍 Conclusion:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo stands out as a multidisciplinary researcher whose work bridges computational biology, food sciences, and pharmacology. His contributions have real-world relevance—from drug development to food safety—and his dedication to mentoring and collaborative science magnifies his impact. These attributes align perfectly with the ethos of the Best Researcher Award, making him a strong and deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

 

 

EDUVAN VALENCIA-CRISTANCHO | Rational drug design | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

 

Prof. EDUVAN VALENCIA-CRISTANCHO | Rational drug design | Best Researcher Award

Teacher at Secretary of Education of Bogotá in Colombia.

Eduvan Daniel Valencia Cristancho 🇨🇴, born on September 26, 1985, in Bogotá, Colombia, is a distinguished chemist specializing in the rational design of compounds with potential antimicrobial activity 🧪. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the Universidad Pedagógica Nacional and a Master’s in Chemical Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia 🎓. Eduvan has participated as a speaker at national and international conferences on chemistry and science education 🌍. Currently working at the District Education Secretariat, he focuses on computational chemistry and bioinformatics research on NDM-1 inhibitors 🧬, contributing significantly to the country’s scientific and educational advancement 📚.

Professional Profile
Suitability for the Researcher Award

Eduvan is a multidisciplinary researcher whose work addresses global health challenges, especially the fight against antibiotic resistance through the study of NDM-1 inhibitors 🦠. His innovative use of molecular modeling, ADMET analysis, and molecular dynamics has advanced understanding in the search for new antimicrobial compounds 🔬. Additionally, his dedication to merging science, technology, and education through STEAM initiatives 🎨📚 demonstrates his commitment to both academic excellence and social impact.

Education 🎓

  • 📘 Master’s Degree in Chemical Sciences – Universidad Nacional de Colombia (2013 – 2015)
    Research: Rational design of spirothiazolidinone, pyrazolothiazolidinone, and pyrazolo β-lactam compounds with potential antimicrobial activity.
  • 📗 Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry Education – Universidad Pedagógica Nacional (2004 – 2008)
    Research: Extraction of dextran from orange peel waste and its inclusion in a didactic unit for teaching carbohydrate concepts.
  • 🖥️ Short Course: Microsoft Colombia – Minecraft Education (2021)
  • 🍊 Short Course: Universidad Nacional de Colombia – Aroma Processing for Food (2013)

Experience 💼

  • 🏫 Current Position: Educator at the District Education Secretariat of Bogotá
  • 🧠 Researcher:
    • Focus on computational chemistry, bioinformatics, and molecular modeling (NDM-1 inhibitors).
    • Author of several scientific articles and book chapters on molecular docking and antimicrobial compounds.
  • 🎤 Speaker at Events:
    • 9th International Electronic Conference on Medicinal Chemistry (2023)
    • 1st International Congress on Physics Research and Teaching (2022)
    • XXVIII National Physics Congress (2019)
    • 31st Latin American Chemistry Congress (2014)
  • 🧪 Scientific Contributions:
    • Studies on ADMET properties, molecular dynamics, and micromagnetic simulations.
    • Integration of science and art in education through innovative projects.

 

Professional Development 🚀📖

Eduvan Daniel Valencia Cristancho 🇨🇴 has demonstrated continuous professional development through diverse academic and scientific contributions 🧠. He has completed specialized training, such as the Minecraft Education course by Microsoft Colombia (2021) 🖥️ and the Aroma Processing for Food course at Universidad Nacional de Colombia (2013) 🍊. Eduvan actively enhances his expertise in computational chemistry, bioinformatics, and educational innovation 📚. As a frequent speaker at national and international conferences 🌍, he shares his research on molecular modeling and NDM-1 inhibitors 🧬. His commitment to integrating technology, science, and education continues to impact his field profoundly 🔬.

Research Focus 🔍🤖

Eduvan Daniel Valencia Cristancho 🇨🇴 focuses his research on computational chemistry 🧪, bioinformatics 💻, and molecular modeling 🧬, particularly targeting NDM-1 enzyme inhibitors to combat antimicrobial resistance 🦠. His work involves in silico studies, including ADMET analysis, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations 🔍. Additionally, he contributes to organic chemistry through the rational design of bioactive compounds 🌿. Eduvan also integrates STEAM education 🎨📚, exploring the connection between science and art to create innovative learning experiences for students 🏫. His interdisciplinary approach strengthens both scientific research and educational methodologies worldwide 🌍.

Awards & Honors 🏅🎖️
  • 🎤 Recognized speaker at prestigious national and international scientific events, such as:
    • 9th International Electronic Conference on Medicinal Chemistry (2023) 🌍
    • 1st International Congress on Physics Research and Teaching (2022) 🧠
    • XXVIII National Physics Congress (2019) 🔬
    • 31st Latin American Chemistry Congress (2014) 🌎
  • 📚 Contributor to peer-reviewed scientific journals with impactful publications on NDM-1 inhibitors and computational chemistry 🧬.
  • 🎨 Acknowledged for integrating art and science in innovative educational projects through STEAM education initiatives 🏫.

 

Publication Top Notes:

“Review, Characterization, and Bioinformatic Analysis of New Delhi Metallo-β-Lactamase-1 (NDM-1)” – Published in Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias (2023) 📅 | 📑 Cited by: Not specified

📄 “In Silico Study of the ADMET Properties of Potential Inhibitors of New Delhi Metallo-β-Lactamase-1 (NDM-1)” – Published in Development of the International Agricultural Commerce Since the Mid Seventies (2023) 📅 | 📑 Cited by: Not specified

📄 “Estimation of Bond Free Energy with Gmx_Mmpbsa in NDM-1 Complexes” – Published in Advanced Journal of Chemistry Section A (2024) 📅 | 📑 Cited by: Not specified

📄 “In Silico Evaluation of Potential NDM-1 Inhibitors: An Integrated Docking and Molecular Dynamics Approach” – Published in Pharmaceuticals (2024) 📅 | 📑 Cited by: Not specified

📕 Book Chapter: “In Silico Study of the ADMET Properties of Potential Inhibitors of NDM-1” in Uniting Knowledge Integrated Scientific Research for Global Development (2023) 📅

📕 Book Chapter: “Science and Art ‘Transformer of Lives'” in Education of the Future: Inspiration Through Innovative Experiences DOKUMA 2022 (2023) 📅

📌 Conclusion:

With a strong track record of innovative research, impactful publications, and contributions to scientific education, Eduvan Daniel Valencia Cristancho is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award 🏅. His work not only advances critical fields like antimicrobial resistance research but also bridges the gap between science and education, making lasting contributions to both the scientific community and society at large 🌟.